Proper Car Wash and Wax will Add Value To your Vehicle

More than one-third of car owners use damaging non-automotive products for car wash and wax. These products could contain harmful detergents, abrasives and additives. In addition, almost half of vehicle owners don't ever wax.

Automotive specialists recommend waxing at least twice a year for maximum protection. However, less than half of motorists don't wax their vehicles at all. This lack of maintenance does have an impact on the value of the vehicle at trade-in time. A clean, well-maintained vehicle can be worth up to 50 percent more than one in "fair" condition

You should avoid dish detergent, which contains harsh chemicals that, intended to cut through grease, will strip away the wax finish on your car. Some are hard to rinse off and leave streaks. For best results, a formulated automotive wash is recommended, one that gently lifts the dirt and grime while protecting the finish.

Proper car was and wax on a regular basis protects it from the natural elements that harm the finish. Here are a basic recommendations when for an appropriate do-it-yourself car wash and wax :

• Car wash and wax in heat and direct sunlight is not recommended. Shade and early morning or late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler is preferred.
• Use a formulated car wash instead of a dish detergent.
• Use warm water.
• Use a soft terrycloth towel or washing mitt.
• Spray the car often with water to ensure the soap and dirt does not dry up on the paint.
• Wash one section at a time, rinsing repeatedly to prevent the soap from drying on the paint.
• When drying your vehicle, also use soft terrycloth towels or scratch-free fabric to prevent paint scratching.
• Wax your vehicle at least twice a year. Prepare your vehicle before waxing using cleaner/polish to remove contaminants.

The clear-coat finish on your vehicle is very thin (similar to a sheet of paper) and is vulnerable to the attacks from sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. This is why you must protect your car body paint with proper and periodic car wash and wax.